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The Best Multitrack Recorders - Digital

Submitted by Raphael Pulgar on Aug. 13, 2019.

Sponsorship Announcement

This gear guide is sponsored by Sweetwater and you can click through to their website to read customer reviews, check prices, or make a purchase, however all of the recommendations below have been made by the Gearank team.

My name is Raphael Pulgar and I run a home-based studio called Saturnine Audio.

This guide is about digital multitrack recorders that have everything you need built-in for recording, mixing, and producing music - if you're looking for handheld multitrack recorders then please read our Handheld Recorder Guide.

For this 2019 update, we examined over 5,300 review and rating sources and updated our ratings for all qualifying multitrack recorders in our database, which includes all the models widely available from American music gear retailers. We've also changed the categories below slightly to include ranges of tracks, such as 18 to 24 tracks instead of just 24 tracks. For specificity, we chose to include items that are used primarily for music production, thus excluding recorders designed primarily for field recordings. We also limited our selection of recorders to those priced under $1,500.

Highest Rated 6 to 8 Track Recorders

Boss Micro BR BR-80

Street Price:

Manufacturer:

The Boss Micro BR BR-80 is a portable multitrack recorder that fits in your pocket and is designed for use by all musicians, but it comes with some special features specifically designed for guitarists including Roland's COSM amp and effect emulators.

Pros

The main thing owners praise the Boss Micro BR BR-80 for are its portability, clean sound, and that it's a great device for capturing musical ideas. It has been particularly well-received by guitarists for its amp modeling features allowing you to plug your guitar in directly, even when using pedals.

Cons

The negative reviews focus on the difficulty in using the export function, and a few users report difficulty using the control wheel. There are also some complaints about the fact that the A/C adapter is sold separately, however, it also runs on USB Bus power or 2 AA batteries.

Overall

Overall, if you're looking for something portable you can record ideas with at any time, and intend to use it as an audio interface, then you'll find the Boss Micro BR BR-80 fits the bill nicely, but you wouldn't want it to be your primary platform for producing music on - it's best thought of as a 'sketch-pad' for recording.

TASCAM DP-008EX

Street Price:

Manufacturer:

The TASCAM DP-008EX is still very popular with the number of user reviews having consistently increased over the past few years.

TASCAM has a storied history of making portable multitrack recorders for use by musicians.

When they first released their Portastudio series for cassette tapes, multitrack recordings were limited to going to big recording studios. TASCAM continues this design philosophy of making multitrack recording hardware accessible with its current range of multitrack recorders.

Pros

The quality and clarity of its sound, its portability, and ease of use are features that owners consistently refer to when rating it highly. People are continuing to praise the quality of the in-built microphones.

Cons

The most often cited complaint from reviewers was that it doesn't work as a USB audio interface, which is true, but it seems like an unfair complaint to me because it doesn't claim to be one. You can, however, transfer your tracks to a computer via USB. For its price, you can't expect it to have many more features than TASCAM have already packed into it - if you need one that also works as an audio interface then look at some of the other options below such as the Zoom R8.

Overall

The TASCAM DP-008EX is well suited to musicians on a budget that simply want a reliable portable device that records songs and allows for mixing down to a final stereo track.

Zoom R8

87

GEARANK

87 out of 100. Incorporating 500+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$300

Manufacturer:

Although the Zoom R8 is used by some filmmakers, it was designed primarily with musicians in mind because it works as a multitrack recorder, USB audio interface, sampler and a control surface for DAWs.

It comes bundled with Cubase LE so it provides both hardware and software recording and mixing options making it well suited to musicians who are just starting in multitrack recording and music production.

It has a built-in stereo condenser mic which makes it well suited to portable recording or quickly capturing ideas without having to set up external microphones. It lets you program punch in/out points and it also has a control input allowing you to use a footswitch (not included) for this as well as using it to start, stop, rewind, and patch up/down.

Main Features:

Simultaneous recording tracks: 2

Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 8

Virtual tracks: Unlimited (actually limited by storage space)

Inputs: 2 x Balanced XLR/TRS Combo Inputs

Outputs: 2 x 1/4" main out, Stereo 1/4" Headphone Jack + USB

Sample rate: 44.1/48kHz for recording, up to 96kHz when used as a USB audio interface

Pros

The most common references in positive reviews are about the quality and clarity of the recorded sound along with the interface being easy to learn and use. In the discussions about using it as a DAW controller, the consensus is that it works quite well in this regard, both for transport control and assigning faders. In his Sound on Sound review, Tom Flint said, "The sequencer and sampler will enable those interested in hip-hop, dance music, and other assorted electronica to emulate the basic production techniques they are hearing, and the recording facilities will introduce newcomers to the wonders of multitracking and mixing in the most straightforward manner."

Cons

When the amp and cabinet modeling features are discussed there is some disagreement - some people say they sound great while others say they're fairly average. One thing that several reviewers complained about is that when you use the onboard rhythm patterns or use it as a sampler you have to assign them to tracks - so if you use 2 tracks for this purpose you only have 6 of the 8 playback tracks left to use.

Overall

The Zoom R8 receives the most number of positive comments for versatility for an 8 track recorder - mainly because it's portable, records well, and is a respectable USB audio interface.

Pros

Most users liked how it functions threefold as a digital mixer, an audio interface, and a standalone recorder. Some users who had the previous generation R series thought that the Livetrak L-12 is a definite upgrade with its newer preamps and converters.

Cons

Reviewers criticized the lack of a solo button on the tracks as well as the absence of a polarity switch to reverse the phase. Both are essential functions for mixing. Filenames are also named similarly and can confuse when transferring the project to a computer for further mixing.

Overall

If you're looking for a jack-of-all-trades multitrack recorder that can help you keep track of rehearsals or live, small venue events, the Zoom LiveTrak L-12 is a great choice.

Highest Rated 14 to 16 Track Recorder

Zoom R16

Street Price:

Manufacturer:

The Zoom R16 provides a huge step up from the 8 track recorders above because it allows you to record 8 tracks simultaneously.

All 8 inputs can take microphones or line-level inputs. Phantom power is only available on two tracks and one track can take a Hi-Z instrument (guitar) level input.

You can also use it as an 8 channel USB audio interface and it comes bundled with Cubase LE. You can also transfer any tracks you've recorded directly on the Zoom R16 to your computer via the USB connection.

It has a built-in stereo condenser mic making it easy to use as a portable recorder.

It comes with an A/C adapter but can also be USB Bus-powered or you can use 6 AA batteries.

Pros

The most commonly mentioned attributes in positive user reviews are that the Zoom R16 provides excellent value for money given that you can use it to record 8 tracks simultaneously to the onboard SD card or your computer and that the sound quality is comparable to much higher spec'd recording devices. In their review, Music Radar said, "Having the simplicity of a standalone recorder is one of its strengths, and the R16 manages to combine said simplicity with many more advanced features that make it a great portable recording solution as well as a handy addition to your computer setup."

Cons

One issue that has been pointed out by a few reviewers is that it doesn't come with an input for a footswitch to allow you to punch/in out when recording. A few owners also gave negative comments about the light-weight plastic construction, but given that many reviewers are still using this device a couple of years after they bought it that's probably not too much of a concern - just treat it carefully and you should be okay. It appears that not many people use it as a controller as it seems on average they would only give it about 3.5 out 5 for this feature. If you're serious about wanting a hardware DAW controller then you might want motorized faders which this doesn't have.

Overall

Overall probably the biggest testament to the Zoom R16 is that it's the only 16 track digital recorder that we found we could recommend after reading all the reviews - most of the other manufacturers who were serious contenders in the 16 track space have given up leaving the Zoom R16 as the clear winner in this category.

Highest Rated 18 to 24 Track Recorders

TASCAM DP-24SD

90

GEARANK

90 out of 100. Incorporating 275+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$400

Manufacturer:

While it does not offer any DAW controller or USB audio interface features, the TASCAM DP-24SD is designed to be a stand-alone audio workstation. The design approach allows you to do all of your music production on board and also lets you export tracks to your computer via USB.

Main Features:

Simultaneous recording tracks: 8

Tracks playback/mix simultaneously: 24

Virtual tracks: 192 - 8 virtual track per actual track

Inputs: 8 x Combo XLR/TRS - 1 channel switchable between line and guitar - Phantom power on all 8 inputs

Pros

The vast majority of musicians who have reviewed it praise if for its audio quality and ease of use. The amp simulations have mixed reviews - but overall they lean towards being positive.

Cons

One issue that some owners report in a negative light is the limitation that you can't use more than one dynamic effect on a single track simultaneously - for example, you can't use the de-esser and compressor, or compressor and noise suppression, simultaneously on one track. The same applies to time-based effects since you can't have reverb and delay at the same time. You can work around this utilizing bouncing and virtual tracks, but it would have been better if you didn't have to. There were also some reviewers disappointed that it doesn't have motorized fades or mixing automation, however, those features probably would have caused the price to go up.

Overall

Overall this is well-liked as an all-in-one recorder for both live and home studio use.

The following review by Andi Picker of the previous model provides an excellent overview of its features and functionality - note that it no longer has a CD burner - you can export to your computer to do that:

Pros

Most user reviews came from people who use the unit as a live mixer that can record performances. Some bands with more than 5 members bought this over the L-12 for the extra inputs. It also gets praise for the individual monitor mix for 6 headphones.

Cons

Many users disliked the fact that the EQ channel also affects the monitor mixes. Front-of-house (FOH) mixes going out through the monitors is usually a recipe for feedback and a few users had trouble finding a compromise between having a good audience mix and a good monitor mix.

Overall

The LiveTrak L-20 is great for recording and monitoring live sessions which are increasing in popularity these days as Youtube content. It may not be optimal for live sound because of the linked channel EQ for both the FOH mix and monitor mix. For your rehearsal space, studio or radio station, the LiveTrak L-20 is a handy tool for capturing performances.

Highest Rated 26 to 32 Track Recorder

TASCAM DP-32SD

86

GEARANK

86 out of 100. Incorporating 425+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price:

$600

Manufacturer:

The TASCAM DP-32SD is designed to be a standalone recording workstation similar to its ancestor, the TASCAM Portastudio Tape recorders. While it does not offer USB recording and DAW control features, it was designed with people used to computerless recording workflows in mind.

According to TASCAM, many well-known songwriters have used their 32 track recorders including Lady Gaga and Bruce Springsteen.

Pros

Most positive reviews come from users that are accustomed to computerless setups and love how familiar the DP-32SD's workflow is to what they're used to. Many of these reviews are from people who gained experience with tape and early digital recording.

Cons

Customer reviews of the TASCAM DP-32SD rate slightly lower than owners of the TASCAM DP-24SD and the main reason is that people expect more than just an additional 8 tracks of playback for a $100 higher price tag. That being said, it appears that more people have purchased the 32 than the 24 over the last few years based on the relative numbers of new user reviews favoring the 32 track version.

Overall

TASCAM's reputation for offering standalone multitrack recorders goes back decades. The DP-24SD is a modern take of the old Tascam Portastudios of the past. For artists or performers that require multiple inputs that prefer having the ability to record and mix without using a DAW, the DP-32SD is a perfect choice.

What To Look For in a Digital Multitrack Recorder

Simultaneous Recording Tracks

When multitrack recording was done on tape machines you could generally record on all tracks simultaneously, however, digital systems usually only permit recording on a limited number of tracks at the same time - make sure the recording system you choose provides enough recording tracks for the kind of work you do.

Total Number of Tracks for Mixing

If a digital recorder is listed as 8 tracks that means you can mix a maximum of 8 tracks regardless of how many you can record on at once.

Virtual Tracks

Many digital multitrack recorders offer additional virtual tracks which are very handy because they allow for non-destructive editing. For example, if you have 8 virtual tracks per track you can do 8 extra takes without 'recording over' previous takes. Alternatively, you might have drums on 8 tracks and bounce them down to 2 tracks to free up tracks for other uses, however, if you need to change that mix later you'll still have access to the original 8 tracks which you can reload then remix.

Effects

You won't be able to add plugins so you'll either want to select one that has all the effects you need or one that has an external effects send/loop so you can use additional outboard signal processing.

Export Functions

You may want to record on a multitrack recorder, then later export your tracks to a computer so that you can do additional mixing/editing/processing on a DAW.

Additional Features

Many models come with additional features such as drum machines or allowing you to use them as a USB audio interface with your computer.

Which is the Best Budget Multitrack Recorder?

Selecting which Multitrack Recorder within your budget needs some special considerations. Since most recorders increase in price the more inputs you need, you have to consider how many inputs you will use. As a general tip, choose a recorder with around 2-4 more inputs than you need. Then when you have identified how many inputs you need, check our guide as we have categorized our selections according to the number of inputs and then price.

For small bands that don't need to record simultaneously, the TASCAM DP-008EX is a safe pick with 2 inputs if you don't need it as an audio interface.

Multitrack recorders with fewer inputs require a different workflow since you won't be able to simultaneously record your entire ensemble. If you need to record multiple sources simultaneously, the Zoom R16 is a good, time-tested choice.

Important Note About Digital Multitrack Recorder Memory

Many recorders only ship with a 1 or 2 GB SD card installed, and some don't ship with any at all, so you'll probably want to get some bigger SDHC memory cards. They're fairly cheap so you may as well go for 32GBs and you can buy them at a local store or online from Sweetwater.com.

Best Multitrack Recorder Selection Methodology

First published on Feb. 12, 2016 written by Jason Horton and last updated on Aug. 13, 2019 by Raphael Pulgar.

We looked at all multitrack recorders available from major online American music gear retailers, excluding handheld and field recorders. We came up with a shortlist of 17 products and entered all of them into our music gear database. We then analyzed forum discussion and reviews by users, owners, and audio engineers and processed that information, which included over 5,300 sources, with the Gearank Algorithm to produce the scores out of 100 you see above. We selected the highest rated options in each sub-category of track numbers and recommended them above. For more information about this process see How Gearank Works.

You can see the recorder that was removed from the recommended list above due to this update here.

The Zoom R24 has up to 6 phantom-powered inputs. The R24 page is still out-of-date in this respect. Also, I found the R24 (and presumably R16) preamps inadequate for distant acoustic sources, e.g. group of unamplified singers or room mic for a solo piano, even with condensers. After adding a FocusRite Scarlett into the gain chain, everything worked much better though.

Why in the world would these companies start eliminating midi when most of the old AND new music devises do?
A deal breaker for many. The world is creeping more and more towards the insane Common sense is out the door!

It seems crazy to me that what used to be standard features are no longer incorporated on the latest models, e.g. MIDI, mixing automation/scene memory, punch in/out footswitch.
We should be getter more features, not less.

The missing of Midi is a real hoax . Homerecording is the use of sequencers and Drummachines !
Maybe it will come back if the army of reissues of Vintage drumboxes and synths will enter the market ... Catched a Tascam dp24 Vers. 1.0 for me !

I'm a Huge Tascam fan - got lots of their products and recorders throughout the years. Currently using the 32sd primarily - nice unit. There are going to be some limitations due to price point, and that's ok. I still enjoy playing around with the old tape machines though.

You can synchronize two Zoom R16's via a simple USB cable for 32 tracks of playback and 16 tracks of simultaneous recording. The R16 can also run on batteries. No midi input or rhythm machine on the R16 was a deal breaker for me, at the time, and I ended up paying more for the older Zoom HD16 which had both.

It was a good machine about 14 years ago - still worth considering if you find one second hand for a good price, but it uses a built-in hard drive and CDRW drive rather than the SD cards that current ones use.

Great information here, I am glad I popped in to check things out. Am in the process of getting a multi track recorder, and for me, and me needs, the Zoom r16 is the one I will get for sure, thx again!!

No solution fills all the requirements, but - I opted, last year, to purchase a used Yamaha AW-1600, and because I have a dedicated Studio PC (not connected to the internet)for mixing and mastering, I've bypassed some of those issues common to the stand-alone DAW. In addition, it features full midi sync-ing. Again, not perfect, but 'perfectly fine' for my needs...

I contacted a few of the manufactures to see if there were any undocumented features that might enable syncing - both Zoom and Tascam got back to me but external syncing isn't possible with their current recorders.

Tascam did point out that the original DP-24 and DP-32 had the ability to MIDI sync with external devices, but that was removed in the 24SD and 32SD models.

If you want to sync you'll either have to get one of those older Tascam models, or do what we did in the old days of tape machines where we'd record SMPTE time code on one of the tracks and sync via that - this is what my band used to do.

Just a quick correction as it was made me upgrade from the Zoom R16 to the R24 - the latter has SIX phantom powered channels, not four! It should also probably be noted that the bit rate is either 16 or 24 - mostly pertinent because at 24 you can't use the built-in effects features.

I want to note for buyers to be aware the Zoom recorders, either 16 or 24 track recorders do not have the ability to use a footswitch. Therefore for punching in and out is a deal breaker and I chose the Tascam 24 for this reason. Who wants to set auto points everytime to fix a spot? I use punch in tool for writing solos and experimenting so it's an important tool for me.

I had the same issue with my Zoom 24... if there was only ONE thing more I wish it had... it would be a foot-pedal punch in. This mark in/out thing gets old right off the bat. Otherwise it's a great recorder!